amount

How much there is of something.

• Add a small amount of water.
• We spent a large amount of money.
• The amounts of sugar in these drinks vary.

How to use it: an amount of + uncountable noun (Add a small amount of milk.)

Similar words: quantity

Common phrases: amount of something, small amount, large amount, amount of pollution

The whole meaning, value, or effect of something considered together.

• The amount of his speech was a warning.
• The whole amount of her reasoning was that we should wait.
• I could not grasp the amount of his argument.

How to use it: the amount of something (The amount of his argument was that nothing should change.)

Similar words: substance, overall effect

Common phrases: whole amount, amount of something

To add up to a particular total.

• The bills amount to fifty pounds.
• Our expenses amounted to much more than expected.
• What does the total amount to?

How to use it: amount to + total (The fees amount to fifty euros.)

Similar words: add up, total

Common phrases: amount to something, amount to millions, amount to thousands

To have the same meaning, effect, or importance as something else.

• His reply amounts to a refusal.
• That mistake amounted to a serious failure.
• Ignoring their request would amount to saying no.

How to use it: amount to + noun (His silence amounts to agreement.); amount to doing something (Leaving now would amount to giving up.)

Similar words: equal, be equivalent to

Common phrases: amount to something, amount to failure, amount to an admission

To develop into someone or something important, successful, or useful.

• He hoped his work would amount to something.
• All those plans amounted to nothing.
• Will this promising young player amount to much?

How to use it: amount to something (With support, her idea could amount to something.)

Similar words: develop into, become

Common phrases: amount to something, amount to nothing, amount to much